He started training in the spring of 1974 and began teaching a year after that having continued to do so ever since. He has covered a range of styles from Shukokai, to Sankukai, Wado Ryu and an alternative style of karate before adopting a more practical approach and developing Severn Valley Karate. This was brought about by the realisation from real practical experience that altho each style has a lot to offer, individually they only work in their own remit and not necessarily in practical situations. To encompass what can happen 'out there' he has woven together some simple suggestive techniques for individuals to adopt and polish off to their own individual personal preference whilst still retaining a sense of discipline coupled with realism to achieve the desired outcome. Safety. This has been brought about from his own personal experience in his professional role. His personal development has been greatly enhanced through this role whereby he has had the opportunities of having been nationally qualified as an instructor. Hence the development of 'IAMME'. Gordon maintains the belief that he will always be learning and actively seeks to develop new innovative ideas that he can pass on in his teachings. Maslow's hierarchy of needs is topped by 'self actualisation' or is that merely self awareness/realisation of who one really is??